The Chairman of Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Sanusi Ahmad Dosara, has confirmed the abduction of 39 residents of Magamin Diddi community under Faru Ward of the Council.
Dosara made the confirmation during a telephone interview with our correspondent in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.
He explained that, the victims were among residents of surrounding communities in Magamin Diddi who had gone to meet with bandits for reconciliation talks aimed at allowing them to continue their business activities without harassment.
According to the chairman, the affected communities have faced persistent attacks from bandits over the past three months, prompting efforts to reach an understanding with the armed groups.
He disclosed that a total of 45 people attended the reconciliation meeting, but 39 of them were abducted by the bandits, while six were allowed to return home to relay the incident to the community.
Dosara further stated that the bandits have demanded ransom for the release of the abducted victims.
The council chairman lamented that the victims embarked on the reconciliation process without informing relevant authorities.
Sanusi Dosara, however, assured that, efforts are ongoing to secure the safe return of the abducted residents.
AMINU DALHATU
